The Mirror reports United fan Rob Booth wrote to the Premier League champions and the management company of Sir Alex Ferguson to request a seat in an executive match for his father John, who was diagnosed with cancer three years ago.

He also spoke to a number of United fanzines, asking for their help and once the message was relayed on Twitter, Young got involved.

The England international replied to a message from one United fan's retweet saying: "Please direct message me the information, I'd love to help them out."

A representative of Young, who has been widely criticised for diving this season, then contacted Rob and his family and the 36-year-old has admitted his shock at recent events.

He said: "I've been blown away by it all to be honest. I didn't even know it got on Twitter.

"I asked on Red News and got in touch with the club about whether we could get a ticket and then someone told me Ashley Young wanted to help.

John Booth is a previous RAF servant and held a season ticket at Old Trafford, prior to giving it up after being diagnosed with the condition.

He later compiled a bucket list of things he wants to do before he passes away, with the final one to watch his beloved United.